“A rare breed” – Why Woltemade’s Newcastle impact surprised no one

Nick Woltemade’s explosive start at Newcastle United has not come as a surprise to one former teammate, with Ermedin Demirović describing the striker as “a rare breed” capable of handling pressure at the highest level.

The Newcastle United forward joined the Magpies late in the summer transfer window as a direct replacement for Alexander Isak, in a deal initially worth €75m that could rise to €90m. While the fee raised eyebrows, Woltemade has wasted little time justifying the investment.

Woltemade arrived from VfB Stuttgart with a growing reputation and immediately delivered. He scored on his Premier League debut, followed it up with a goal on his Champions League debut, and then struck again at St James’ Park — becoming just the third player in club history to score in each of his first three home appearances.

That achievement places him alongside club icon Alan Shearer.

Across all competitions, the 22-year-old has already registered seven goals and one assist in 15 appearances, quickly establishing himself as a fan favourite despite an unfortunate own goal in the derby defeat to Sunderland.

Speaking to SportBILD, former Stuttgart teammate Ermedin Demirović made it clear he expected Woltemade to thrive on Tyneside.

“Yes, because he’s a rare breed of player,” Demirović said when asked if Woltemade’s impact surprised him. “I was hoping Nick would come there and score right away. Especially since there were high expectations surrounding the transfer.”

Demirović acknowledged the challenge of replacing Isak, who had been a standout performer for Newcastle, but believes Woltemade has the tools to reach a similar level.

“Alexander Isak was an incredible player at Newcastle. We know Nick can be just as good. But he had to prove himself first.”

Demirović also pointed to recent examples of Bundesliga stars needing time to adapt in England, using Florian Wirtz as a comparison.

“The prime example is Florian Wirtz,” he explained. “One of the best German players — he moved to Liverpool and didn’t quite click right away.

“It’s different with Nick. That’s why I think what he’s achieving is outstanding, whether at Newcastle or with the national team.”

Demirović added that Woltemade’s influence now extends beyond club football, suggesting his form has become crucial for Germany as well.

“If he’s not performing well, then the national team isn’t either.”

While it remains early in his Premier League journey, Woltemade’s composure, physical presence and immediate output suggest Newcastle may have secured a forward uniquely suited to high expectations. Unlike many young arrivals, he has embraced the pressure rather than being weighed down by it.

With Newcastle balancing domestic and European commitments, Woltemade’s role is only set to grow. Maintaining this level through the second half of the season will be the real test — but those who know him best believe he is wired for exactly that challenge.

Is Nick Woltemade already one of Newcastle’s smartest signings of recent years?